COURSE CURRICULUM

The Motorsport Engineering degree at the University of Derby is structured to develop students from foundational engineering principles through to advanced specialist knowledge in vehicle performance, design and management, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and industry relevance. In the first year, students study core engineering subjects such as Engineering Science, Engineering Mathematics 1, Engineering Design 1, Vehicle Systems, Engineering Applications and Professional Development, and Engineering Workshop, which together build essential skills in mechanics, mathematics, electronics, design thinking and workshop practice. The Engineering Workshop module is highly practical and introduces students to manufacturing and prototyping processes including CNC machining, additive and composite manufacturing, measurement technologies, PCB design, soldering, wiring, fault finding and test equipment use, alongside strict health and safety training, ensuring students gain real-world engineering capability from the start. In the second year, learning becomes more advanced and applied, with modules such as Engineering Design 2, Engineering Mathematics 2, Propulsion 1, Vehicle Dynamics 1 and Team Project and Professional Development, supported by optional subjects like Fluids and Thermodynamics or Structural Mechanics and Materials. These modules focus on optimising designs, understanding vehicle performance, analysing propulsion systems and improving engineering efficiency using simulation, CAD and analytical methods. The final year deepens specialisation through modules including Vehicle Dynamics 2, Vehicle Design and Management, Engineering Practice, Sustainability and Ethics, and a major Individual Project and Professional Development module, alongside optional advanced topics such as Computational Fluid Dynamics, Propulsion 2 and Engineering Composite Materials. Students are expected to undertake independent research or industry-focused projects that demonstrate technical depth and problem-solving ability. Across all levels, the course integrates theory with practical application using real engineering tools, preparing graduates for careers in motorsport engineering, automotive design, vehicle dynamics, manufacturing and performance analysis, as well as broader roles in advanced mechanical and transport engineering sectors.